Profile: Tom Marquardt |
Tom, managing editor
of The (Annapolis) Capital, was born and raised in Michigan where h e graduated from Central Michigan University
with a BA degree in secondary education, with a journalism major. After spending two years
in the Army he accepted his first job as a reporter at the Big Rapids (MI) Pioneer and was
promoted to managing editor where he remained for two years. Following that he spent three
years at the Ypsilanti (MI) Press before coming to The Capital in 1977. Tom is a
recognized leader on Freedom of Information issues in the Maryland newspaper world and
currently serves as co-chair of the MDDC FOI Subcommittee. He chaired the Access Maryland
(see story, page 1) project, an audit of public records conducted across the state last
summer by MDDC member papers.PERSONAL: How would you describe yourself? "Privately my friends know me to be more like Robin Williams; in public, I can be more like Al Gore – a bit too serious for my own good." PROFESSIONAL: Least favorite part of job: "The constant search for good people." List and briefly describe your mentor: "My mentors have been Ed Casey, The Capital’s executive editor, and Phil Merrill, The Capital’s publisher. Both of them have offered me the support, encouragement and guidance that has contributed to my professional development over the last, spectacular 23 years." Biggest challenge of job: "Retaining good people." Most serious challenge to today’s newsgatherers: " Giving up ancient traditions that no longer apply to successful newspaper management and embracing an emerging environment that will reenergize circulation and advertising growth." Main benefit you derive from MDDC membership: "Finding a mutual commitment to improving First Amendment laws in Maryland and developing a strong bond with fellow editors who share these challenges." FUN: Favorite music: "Jazz." Favorite car and car you drive now: "2000 Lincoln SL." Last book read: "The Stork Club" by Ralph Blumenthal. Last movie seen: "Space Cowboys" Favorite TV show: "If I ever watch TV, it’s PBS, sports or the cooking channel." Hobbies: "Wine collecting, boating and occasional fishing." Last or favorite vacation: "Two weeks in France," in early October. How you would like to spend one day: "On a boat with my buddies." Favorite quotation: "First, break the rules." If you could meet anyone else (any time in history), who would it be? "Jonas Green, our second publisher and born troublemaker who in the 18th century courageously broke a rule: He refused to honor the government-imposed Stamp Act." |